Putin doubles down on Ukraine invasion with declaration of martial law

Russian President Vladimir Putin has imposed martial laws in annexed territories (Mikhail Klimentyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

President Vladimir Putin has doubled down on his faltering invasion of Ukraine with a declaration of martial law in four illegally annexed regions as well as making preparations within Russia for draconian new restrictions.

Mr Putin’s drastic efforts to tighten his grip on Ukrainians and Russians follow a series of embarrassing setbacks including battlefield defeats, sabotage and troubles with his troop mobilisation.